- The Ford Equator Sport has been redesigned in China, less than 3 years after its debut.
- The SUV features a new front end, while much of the bodywork remains unchanged.
- The facelifted model will offer both gasoline and PHEV powertrain options for buyers.
Ford’s joint venture with Jiangling Motors (JMC) has rolled out the facelifted Equator Sport in China, barely three years after the original made its debut. Along with a refreshed exterior that aims to keep up with the latest design trends, the Equator Sport is also set to introduce a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) powertrain option in the near future.
Known as the Territory in markets outside China, the Ford Equator Sport is essentially a shorter and slightly sportier iteration of the Equator. Both SUVs recently graced China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology listings, and now the Equator Sport has officially made its debut on Jiangling Ford’s website, ahead of its market launch.
More: Ford Evos Crossover Becomes The Mondeo Sport In China And Goes Hybrid-Only
The standout feature of this mid-cycle update is the redesigned front end. A black panel visually links the new LED headlights to the bumper intakes, replacing the oversized grille of the previous model. While the side profile and tailgate remain largely unchanged, the lower rear fascia now sports a cleaner design. Ford has also introduced new wheel options, including the 20-inch alloys shown in the images, along with two fresh exterior colors: Wilderness Green and Cactus Gray.
The updated SUV is slightly longer, measuring 4,685 mm (184.5 inches), which is 55 mm (2.2 inches) more than the outgoing version. The rest of the dimensions, including the 2,726 mm (107.3 inches) wheelbase, remain unchanged.
Interior updates are less noticeable, with new trim options being the most significant change. The Equator Sport retains its dual 12.3-inch digital displays but now features an upgraded 10-speaker audio system. In comparison, other Chinese-built Ford models like the Evos, Mondeo, and Explorer, boast the larger and more impressive 27-inch screens, though these are products of the Changan-Ford joint venture.
At launch, the Ford Equator Sport is available with a carry-over turbocharged 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine, generating 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Besides the non-electrified version, Ford will soon add a plug-in hybrid variant, offering a combined output of 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and powered by a CATL-sourced battery pack.
Pricing for the facelifted Equator Sport has yet to be announced. The current model is priced between ¥126,800 and ¥165,500 (equal to around $18,100 to $23,500 at current exchange rates).
